A recent report by DBS found that many family offices are underprepared for succession and risk events, despite their desire to preserve wealth across generations. The “DBS Asian Family Office Almanac 2026: Assessing the Risk Readiness Gap” surveyed over 200 family offices in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
The study identified key concerns for families, including wealth transfer, risk management, and AI and technology adoption. However, it found that many families lack the internal capabilities and operating processes to address these concerns.
Succession Planning
Only 1% of families have next-generation members leading the design and implementation of wealth plans.
The founder’s desire to retain control was cited as the leading cause of delay in wealth transfer, with 33% of respondents citing this as a reason. Another 15% expect wealth to change hands only after an event such as a crisis or the founder’s incapacity.
Risk Management
Business continuity planning is limited, with over 85% of family offices lacking a formal plan or relying on informal arrangements. Only 15% have a formalized plan that is regularly tested.
Risk management shortcomings extend beyond continuity planning, with 38% of families not addressing cybersecurity and data privacy risk, and only 3% having obtained or intending to obtain cyber insurance.
Internal expertise gaps and limited internal resources were cited as the main barriers to addressing risks, at 56% and 48% respectively.
AI Adoption
AI adoption remains at an early stage for many family offices, with 47% not using digital tools or AI in daily operations. Internal expertise gaps and data security concerns were cited as the main barriers to wider use, at 49% and 46% respectively.
Lee Woon Shiu noted that the families best placed to protect and grow their wealth will be those who address these issues early, while they still have time and ample choices. As family offices work through the complexities of wealth transfer, risk management, and AI adoption, they must prioritize strategic planning and investment in internal capabilities to ensure long-term success.